RL Ideas: Refinishing and Reviving Antiques

Every design enthusiast knows that paint is the secret to breathing life back into unwanted home stuff. If some of the pieces you own need sprucing up, it's the perfect time to whip out a can of enamel, experiment and watch tacky figurines from the past—in different sizes and shapes—look infinitely classier when coated with color and displayed in a new spot!

Before trashing an old statement chair, try your hand at saving it with fabric paint. It's a quick way to conceal stubborn stains and make a well-loved item look brand new. If you are quite crafty, feel free to design a mural over it to create a conversation piece.

Update a standard wicker piece by painting it in a pastel shade. Aside from giving the piece a touch of sophistication and drama, it's also an easy way to turn an old-fashioned piece into a modern must-have.

Once cleaned and painted metallic, fallen tree branches can become an incredible organic centerpiece. Looking for a quirky way to organize your accessories? Hang your necklaces and bracelets on the branches—you get to have an organizer and decor piece in one!

RL Tip: Prior to painting, check if the item is an expensive piece whose value would depreciate if painted. Otherwise, color to your heart’s content!